Following the success of last year’s event, we’re excited to announce this year’s Mental Elf Festive Fun Run in Newport.

Mental Elf is a seasonal running event with the emphasis firmly on fun. The 5km route is mostly flat and suitable for all ages and abilities. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or prefer to walk, stroll and take in your surroundings, everyone is welcome.

This fun, festive event brings people together to raise awareness of mental health and wellbeing, while raising vital funds for your local mental health charity, Mind in Gwent.

It’s a great opportunity to connect with your local community, get active and spend time outdoors – all things that can help support your mental health and wellbeing.

You can choose to walk, jog, skip or run the 5km parkrun route. The event is open to all ages and abilities (children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult).

Elf fancy dress is very much encouraged!

Event details

When: Sunday 6 December 

Where: Riverfront, Kingsway, Newport, NP20 1HG (what3words: ///second.fuzzy.stays)

The course is paved and mostly flat throughout. Along the way, you’ll pass some of Newport’s most recognisable monuments and points of interest, with the route following the river and offering the chance to discover some of the city’s hidden beauty while connecting with nature.

Ready to join us? Click the Sign Up button today to secure your place and get festive for a great cause.

Sign up for Mental Elf Newport 2026

Mental Elf Festive Fun Run is a fundraising event organised by Mind in Gwent.

The Mental Elf™ blog is a separate initiative, run independently from this event. The blog provides short, evidence-based summaries of new mental health research. You can visit the Mental Elf blog here.